About The Song
“Masking Tape” by The Monkees is a charming, quirky track from their 1967 album “Headquarters”, an album that marked a shift in the band’s creative control. Written by Michael Nesmith, the song stands out for its playful and experimental nature, which was a hallmark of the band’s musical evolution during this period.
Lyrically, “Masking Tape” is a somewhat abstract and humorous song about the fleeting and impermanent nature of life. The song’s protagonist describes how everything in his life is held together with masking tape, a metaphor for the fragile and temporary nature of human existence, relationships, and experiences. The message of the song is not overtly deep but rather speaks to the impermanence of the things we rely on to make our lives feel cohesive, and how even the strongest of bonds can sometimes be held together by something as simple (and fragile) as masking tape.
The Monkees’ performance of “Masking Tape” is loose and experimental, which is part of the charm of the track. The song has a folky, lighthearted vibe, with acoustic guitars and percussion providing a simple yet catchy foundation. The instrumentation is minimalist, and it leans into a DIY aesthetic, fitting for the band’s attempt at asserting their creative independence during the recording of the “Headquarters” album. The song doesn’t rely on complex arrangements, but rather on its sincere, quirky appeal and the playful, almost whimsical energy that The Monkees often infused into their music.
Micky Dolenz’s vocals on “Masking Tape” are lighthearted and fun, perfectly matching the song’s humorous tone. The harmonies in the chorus add a sense of joy and carefree energy to the track, with the band embracing the feeling of imperfection and spontaneity. The lyrics, while a bit cryptic and open to interpretation, reflect the irreverent spirit that the band embraced during this phase of their career.
Overall, “Masking Tape” is a fun, quirky track that fits into the broader theme of “Headquarters” as the Monkees began to experiment more with their musical identity. The song is a perfect example of their ability to take a simple concept and create a song that is playful, reflective, and perfectly in tune with their evolving sound during this time. It’s a lighthearted and creative offering, with a sense of humor and a touch of irony, which makes it an interesting and enjoyable piece of their catalog.